On September 11th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort, joined by the Martin County CEO Cohort, visited Crane Credit Union’s Home Office in Crane, Indiana. The goal was to gain a deeper understanding of the banking industry and how financial institutions serve their communities.
The students were welcomed by President/CEO Kevin Sparks and several members of the leadership team, including VP of Operations Stacy Lengacher, AVP/Regional Manager Marsha Clarke, VP of Information Technology Mike Wiggington, and VP of Human Resources Marissa Lynch. Mr. Sparks set the tone for the visit by asking, “How can we help you?”—a question that opened the door to an engaging and collaborative discussion.
The leadership team shared insights on business planning, brand awareness, relationship development, and the importance of lifelong learning. They also introduced students to passkeys, a new technology designed to enhance security and simplify digital access, reflecting the credit union’s forward-thinking approach.
Crane Credit Union, which has grown to more than 18 branches, 205 employees, and 68,000 members, also emphasized the importance of internships, retirement benefits, and professional relationships in building a successful career.
A key lesson for the cohort was understanding the difference between banks and credit unions, along with the role of risk management and financial literacy in helping members make informed decisions. Students also gained hands-on experience by exploring the credit union’s inner workings and interacting with an ATM.
The visit offered both practical exposure and valuable guidance for the future entrepreneurs. The cohorts expressed gratitude to Kevin Sparks and the entire Crane Credit Union team for their time, expertise, and hospitality.